Russia turns down Selena Gomez's visa

3 years ago

Selena Gomez has been forced to cancel two dates of her world tour, after her visa was denied by Russia.

The singer was scheduled to perform in Moscow and St. Petersburg next week, but her concert promoters have confirmed to the "Moscow Times" that she won't be allowed to enter the country.

The promoters claim that Selena's visa was denied as a result of the restrictions put in place after Madonna and Lady Gaga's controversial concerts there. Last year, Russian conservatives took legal action against the pop stars, saying their concerts violated the country's ban on promoting LGBT relationships.

Since the cancellations, U.S.-based gay rights activist John Becker has launched a Change.org petition, calling on Selena to speak up on behalf of Russia's LGBT youth.